When his parents, who were infamous for their severe criticism, disparaged his daughter’s piano performance at a family meal, the single father was forced to face a difficult reality. His daughter’s proud moment swiftly evolved into a struggle to preserve her self-worth and innocence.

Lily’s tiny fingers were hovering over the keyboard as I observed, her brows knitted in focused attention. Her worried face was softly lit by the soft glow from the lamp in the corner, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in our living room.

My gaze strayed to the framed picture of the two of us on the piano. When she was sitting on my lap at the age of five, we both had big smiles on our faces. It served as a helpful reminder of my motivations.

“Take your time, my love,” I murmured in a steady, collected tone. “You’ve got this.”

With her shoulders tensed, she inhaled deeply. “All right, Daddy. Hope I don’t make a mistake.”

Both of them stopped laughing and just stared at me as if I was crazy.

My dad got to his feet, his face flushed. “This isn’t how we raised you. You’re overly sensitive. If you treat her like way, she won’t be able to survive in the real world.”

It was more than I could handle. It all came pouring back, all the hurt and rage from years of their never-ending criticism and the way they minimized everything I accomplished. Although my voice remained calm, I felt as though I was standing on a precipice.

“This,” I continued in a quiet but determined tone, “is the reason I was so crazy when I was younger. Since you were unable to simply be kind. You had to put me down all the time. I won’t allow you to harm her in that way, though. Now exit.”

Shocked, they stared at me. I shook my head as my mother opened her mouth to say anything. “Not at all. Gather your belongings and leave.”

They gathered their bags and coats without saying anything more, gave each other a final glance, and walked away. After they left, the door clicked shut, and I stood there gasping for air. When I looked back, I saw Lily with tears streaming down her cheeks.

“I apologize, Daddy,” she muttered. “I didn’t mean to—”

In two strides, I crossed the room and gathered her into my arms. “No, sweetheart, no. You did not make any mistakes. I think you did a great job. I’m so happy for you.

Sniffing, she held on to me. “But they laughed at me.”

My chest constricted once again, but I spoke softly. “My dear, they were incorrect. Sometimes they just don’t know how to be polite. However, that is their issue, not yours.”

After hesitating, she slowly nodded. “Okay.”

She resumed her game after I sat down next to her and put my arm around her shoulders. Her fingers exhibited a slight confidence this time, and the melody flowed more smoothly. With pride in my heart, I observed her.

“See?” As soon as she was done, I replied gently. “You’re getting better every time.”

She smiled slightly, and I felt a wave of warmth rush through me. This was not the only instance of it. It had to do with all I was attempting to do and everything I wanted to be for her.

I took a seat by myself in the living room after Lily went to bed. I could still hear the events of the previous evening in the thick silence.

I inhaled deeply, got to my feet, and moved toward the picture-hung piano. I ran my fingers over the keys, reflecting on how their brutality had corrupted this once joyful instrument. However, it is no longer the case. She couldn’t have that taken from her by me. That wouldn’t be taken away from us by me.

Lily and I sat at the piano again the following morning. Her gaze was questioning as she raised hers to me. I nodded and grinned.

“Let’s try it again, okay?” I stated. “You and me.”

She began to play as soon as she nodded and her fingers found the keys. A little stronger, a little more confident, the tune filled the room. With a full heart, I observed her and felt we would be alright as the music started.

We would be all right.

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